On Friday, September 20, 2013, the House passed short-term legislation, H.J. Res 59 to keep the government operating until December 15, 2013. The bill passed by a vote of 230-189, with only one Democrat voting for the measure and no Republicans opposing it. This bill includes the controversial provision pushed by Republican leadership to defund the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Senate will consider the legislation early next week where it is expected to be amended by the Democratic majority to restore funding for the ACA. Some Republican Senators have also been vocal in their opposition to the controversial language concerning ACA defunding. Once amended and passed by the Senate, the bill will be sent back to the House for consideration. If consensus is not reached between the House and Senate, the government will shut down when the fiscal year 2014 begins on October 1, 2013.
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